Welcome to CHS Middletown
CHS Middletown, opened in 2025, provides a core early learning program with a play-based curriculum designed to enhance children’s educational, social, emotional, and cognitive development—with all costs covered for families. The Center includes modern classrooms, an innovation studio, a hands-on STEM garden, and a family success center. By working closely with families, together we nurture each child’s development and inspire a passion for learning.
Ages served
Infants
6 weeks to 12 months old
Younger toddler
1 to 2 years old
Older toddler
2 to 3 years old
Preschool
3 to 5 years old
Minimum admissions qualifications
CHS receives many more applications than it can accept. This is due to limited space in our centers and our desire to maintain small class sizes with low teacher-to-child ratios. As a result, meeting the minimum admissions qualifications does not guarantee a child’s enrollment.
The admissions process
Application
On-site visit
New family orientation
visit A Family Success Advocate will meet with your family at your home.
enrolled We will start to prepare you for your child’s first day at CHS!
Admissions
Our admissions process is designed to be clear, supportive, and centered on each child’s success. Families complete a brief online application and meet with our Family Success team to discuss goals, learning styles, and support needs; please note our application is not open year-round.
Whole child support
From ensuring children arrive well-nourished and healthy to creating play-based, exploratory learning environments, we support each child’s growth in every way. When children feel safe, seen, and supported, they have the confidence to learn, explore, and thrive.
Learn moreTeachers and staff
CHS teachers and staff are experienced, dedicated professionals who understand how to support diverse learners. We work closely with families to ensure every child is surrounded by a team that communicates, collaborates, and celebrates progress together.
Family success
Every CHS family is paired with a dedicated Family Success Advocate who keeps them informed and helps strengthen the home-school connection. We provide access to tools and resources including parenting information, health-care referrals, job-training opportunities, and more.
CHS Middletown Leaders
Jessica Knaub
Jessica Knaub, Center Director of CHS Middletown, brings more than 20 years of experience in early childhood education, including leadership roles in corporate and non-profit centers. She is committed to ensuring children and families receive the best possible start and focuses on guiding a team dedicated to high-quality early learning experiences. Jessica’s enthusiasm for CHS’s mission is evident in her efforts to positively impact the lives of children, families, and the broader community.
Jennifer Kula
Jennifer Kula, Assistant Director at CHS Middletown, brings extensive experience in early childhood education and a deep passion for nurturing young learners. She plays a key role in shaping the curriculum and daily operations while fostering a supportive, engaging learning environment. Jennifer is dedicated to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow, explore, and succeed within the CHS community.
Samantha Wood
Samantha Wood, Family Success Manager at CHS Middletown, works closely with families to provide support that empowers them to lead fulfilling lives. With five years of experience in social work and a strong focus on family engagement, she guides her team in helping families build safe, stable, and thriving home environments. Samantha is committed to ensuring that every child’s success is supported both at CHS and at home.
CHS Middletown
Address:
1351 Oberlin Rd
Middletown, PA 17057
Prioritized Districts:
*CHS prioritizes applications from children and families who live, work, or attend school in Middletown Area School District, Steelton-Highspire School District, and Lower Dauphin School District.
Each CHS Center works closely with the local school district(s) to support a successful transition to kindergarten.
If your family does not live or work in the priority school districts, CHS still encourages your family to apply as we consider many other aspects of a family’s circumstances to determine eligibility and prioritization.
Have Questions?
Admissions questions? Interested in CHS career opportunities? Contact us to learn more about Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning.
